Brief Overview of ἄμμος (G285)

ἄμμος (ammos) is a Greek word meaning “sand.” It is used in the New Testament and other ancient texts to refer to grains of sand or sandy terrain.

Possible Meanings:

1. Sand: The most direct meaning, referring to the small, granular material found on beaches, deserts, and other sandy areas.
2. Metaphorical Use: Sometimes used metaphorically to describe something small or numerous in quantity.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG defines ἄμμος as “sand.” It mentions its use in a literal sense, such as describing sandy terrain or the granular material itself. The lexicon may also note its metaphorical use in ancient literature to represent something small or numerous.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ provides a definition of ἄμμος as “sand” and notes its use in classical Greek literature. It highlights its literal meaning and may mention its use in various contexts, such as geography and metaphorical expressions.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer describes ἄμμος as “sand,” with reference to its appearance in the New Testament. Thayer emphasizes its literal sense as a common material found in nature and occasionally its symbolic use in literature.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance lists ἄμμος (ammos) as the Greek term for “sand.” It provides examples of its occurrence in the Bible, where it is used literally to describe sandy surfaces or terrain.

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Summary:
ἄμμος (ammos) is a Greek word meaning “sand,” used to describe the granular material found in various environments. BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance all agree on its literal meaning and usage in the New Testament. The word may also be employed metaphorically to signify something small or numerous, reflecting its broad application in both literal and figurative contexts.